Basilica of St. John

The remnants of the Basilica of Saint John, which is a place of significant religious and historical value, attract visitors because of the beautiful architecture there. Pilgrims came from all over the world to see the basilica since it was considered one of the largest and most majestic cathedrals in all of Christendom when it was still standing. 

It is located in the Selcuk neighborhood, on the slopes of Ayasuluk Hill, directly below the hill's fortification, and quite close to the archaeological remains of Ephesus. The price of admission to the basilica includes a trip to the adjoining castle, where visitors may examine a copy of the original building and take in a breathtaking vista over the metropolitan area.

Things to do at Basilica of Saint John:

• Learn about the opulence that it contained in the past: The remnants of the basilica that are still standing, while only partially rebuilt, provide a decent indication of the enormous magnitude of the edifice in its former form. Once upon a time, this basilica, which resembles a fortress, filled the whole breadth of the hill it sits on and was rated alongside the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, which is now known as the Aya Sofya, as one of the greatest churches in the Byzantine Empire. The construction of this magnificent basilica took place during the reign of Emperor Justinian, which lasted from 527 to 565 AD. In its original configuration, it had the form of a cross and was guarded by six enormous domes.

• Simply by glancing at the amazing stonework that has been left behind, one may still get a feeling of the grandeur that once existed there:

1. Although the building of the basilica was intended to serve as a tomb, it was also used as the city's primary place of worship. The fact that the basilica was created with a large apse attached simply to the eastern piers sets it apart from any other basilica erected at the same time. This makes the basilica much more eye-catching. This may be found on the crossing, along with a passage that goes all the way around the area in between the two walls. It is speculated that tunnel vaulting was used to create this construction, which explains why it has such a distinctive appearance.
2. The monograms of the Emperor and his wife, Theodora may be seen throughout the several courtyards that guests can explore.

• Explore the breathtaking remains of the Byzantine Church of St. John, which were constructed on the burial of Saint John the Evangelist and cover his tomb. According to local folklore, Saint John spent the final days of his life at this spot, which is situated on the lower slopes of Ayasoluk Hill. It is still possible to see the grave of Saint John, which is enclosed by the cruciform boundaries of Justinian's basilica. 

• It is the perfect venue to tie the knot in style: The church has a Gothic design, with earthy brick outside walls and towering cyan spires. The inside has beautiful columns and domes, sunshine coming through painted glass windows, and is a lovely spot for local couples to get married.